Osteoporosis Testing

Osteoporosis, a disease in which bones lose density and become fragile, is most common for women, especially after menopause. Osteoporosis can lead to fractures, which can be very debilitating and sometimes increase the risk of death from complications. There are now ways to treat and help manage the disease. The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends an osteoporosis screening for all women ages 65 and older and for postmenopausal women ages 50 years and older with one or more of these risk factors:

Any bone fractures after age 40

A close relative who has had a fracture related to osteoporosis

A current smoker

Weighs less than 125 pounds

The screening will indicate if you are at risk of osteoporosis and if you should have a follow-up exam. Lima Memorial offers these initial osteoporosis screenings at Lima Memorial Medical Park.

Osteoporosis Screening for Women at Risk

If a screening indicates you are at risk of osteoporosis, Lima Memorial offers an advanced osteoporosis scanning system called DEXA that quickly and accurately measures bone density and the risk for fractures. DEXA scans are performed at the Women’s Health Center at Lima Memorial Medical Park. If there is an indication for DEXA scan, this study does require an order from your physician.